Large study concludes ginkgo is ineffective in tinnitus

A 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 978
people (489 matched pairs) concluded that Ginkgo biloba
extract was no more effective than placebo in improving symptoms
of tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Effects were assessed via questionnaires
at baseline, after four and 12 weeks of treatment, and again two
weeks after treatment ended. In addition to questions about the
severity of tinnitus, the questionnaires included items on symptoms
of cerebral insufficiency (inadequate blood flow to the brain)
other than tinnitus. The researchers concluded that ginkgo "seems
to be ineffective in treating tinnitus alone, but it may be effective
in treating tinnitus in patients who also have other symptoms
of cerebral insufficiency." The ginkgo preparation used in
the study was the standardized extract LI 1370, manufactured by
Berlin-based Lichtwer Pharma. Drew S, Davies E. Effectiveness
of Ginkgo biloba in treating tinnitus: double blind, placebo controlled
trial.British Medical Journal 2001; 322:73-75.